Parenting
Winter Blues
What to do when a fever takes hold Winter in Brisbane is relatively mild. However, ‘coughs and colds’ persist and our very young (and very old) need to be watched carefully for signs that a cold may be something worse. We spoke with A/Prof David Coman; Medical Director of Paediatrics at The Wesley Hospital to get more information about fevers in children; what to look out for and when to seek further support and intervention.
T
he body has an inbuilt mechanism that keeps normal temperature regulated between 36.5 degrees Celsius to 37.5 degrees Celsius. A fever is defined as a temperature >38 degrees Celsius. A fever is the part of the immune systems response to an infection.
• Symptoms and Signs of a Fever in Children The symptoms and signs of fever may differ in children of various ages, and will be influenced by the underlying infectious cause of the fever e.g. a child with a fever caused by pneumonia will also have a cough. In general common features that indicate a fever include; Feels hot to touch Looks pale Has a fast heart rate and rapid breathing. These are common
Trust the Brisbane baby whisperer who helps your child in your own home • Sleep solutions that don’t compromise your parenting style • Proven results • Personalised in-home help • Newborn to five years
Find us on Facebook 0457 473 725
www.parentingprep.com.au 12
Your Local Families Magazine – Brisbane Issue 4 - June/July 2014
normal physiological responses to a fever in a young infant Irritability and miserable Sleepiness Muscle aches and pains Mottled skin is common during a fever in young infants
• Causes of Fever in Children Common Infectious Causes Viral infections: there are over 100 different viruses that can cause illness in children. Our immune system works on “pattern recognition”, so children are frequently exposed to viruses they have never seen before, and have no set immunity against. This is a common reason why the younger siblings in a large family (with older school aged children) are sick with viral illness more
Call us now on 1300 052 253 for a
■ Cars ■ Trucks ■ Buggies ■ Helicopters ■ Boats
15% OFF store-wide discount!
www.rcmasters.com.au 1300 052 253